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You're engaged! What's next?

By: Inn at Virginia Tech / 27 Jan 2025
A graphic reading

The holiday season is a lovely time to get engaged, and if that's you - Congratulations on your engagement! No matter when you got engaged, this post will help you with first steps in planning your dream wedding!

You've said "yes" to forever, and now it's time to start planning the big day. We know the thought of wedding planning can feel overwhelming, but don't worry: taking it step by step will make the process smooth and enjoyable. We're here to help you navigate the first few steps in your wedding planning journey so you can focus on celebrating your love.

1. Take a Moment to Celebrate

Before diving into the details, take a breath and enjoy this moment with your partner. You've just gotten engaged! Celebrate with a date night, share the news with your loved ones, and simply enjoy the excitement of this new chapter in your lives. This is a special time, so soak it all in before starting the planning process!

2. Set a Budget

Now that the excitement has settled in, it's time to talk money. Setting a wedding budget is one of the first and most important steps in planning. Knowing how much you can spend will help guide every decision moving forward, from venue selection to catering and decorations. Sit down with your partner and have an open, honest conversation about your budget, and make sure to include any family members who are contributing. Once you have a clear idea of your budget, you'll be able to plan more effectively and avoid any surprises later on.

3. Create a Vision for Your Wedding

Every couple has a unique vision of their wedding day, so take some time to talk about what kind of wedding you want. Do you envision a traditional ceremony in a church or an intimate outdoor gathering somewhere on the Virginia Tech campus? Will your celebration be a casual affair or a formal, black-tie event in one of our ballrooms? Create a vision board or Pinterest board together and start gathering ideas for themes, colors, and the overall vibe you want for your wedding. This will help you as you start selecting your venue and other key elements.

4. Pick a Wedding Date

Choosing your wedding date is one of the most exciting decisions! Consider factors like the season, availability of key family members, and your venue options when selecting the perfect day. You'll also want to check in with your closest friends and family to make sure they can attend. Once you have a date, you can move forward with booking your venue and other vendors. Remember, popular dates can fill up quickly, so it's good to be flexible if possible.

5. Select Your Wedding Venue

Finding the perfect venue is one of the most important—and fun—steps in the wedding planning process. The venue will set the tone for the entire day, so think about what feels right for you both. Make a list of venues you're interested in and schedule tours. Ask questions about availability, packages, and pricing, and consider the location's accommodations for guests. Booking your venue early will ensure you get your dream spot! We certainly hope you're considering The Inn at Virginia Tech – if so, please contact us by filling out our contact form for events! We can't wait to chat with you.

6. Enjoy the Process

Lastly, remember to enjoy the journey! Wedding planning is about celebrating your love and making lasting memories with your partner. While it can get busy, try not to stress over every little detail. Trust that everything will come together, and enjoy the time spent planning your dream day together.

Enjoy the process by making it a date and celebrate along the way! You are always welcome at Preston's Restaurant at our hotel, but we'd especially like to invite you to make a reservation for our Valentine's Dinner next month on Friday & Saturday, February 14 & 15. Celebrate your love and enjoy a special dinner with us! Call us at 540-231-0120 to book your reservation now, as they fill up quickly.

 

Wedding planning doesn't have to be overwhelming if you take it one step at a time. By setting a budget, creating a vision, booking your venue, and starting on your timeline, you'll be well on your way to an unforgettable celebration. This post will be the first of a three part series on wedding planning. We hope to see you next month at Preston's Restaurant, but also online to talk about planning a wedding at The Inn at Virginia Tech.

If you want to schedule a tour with us or get more information, fill out our contact form! Happy planning!

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